John Wayne Airport (JWA) in Orange County, California, had a substantial economic impact exceeding $5.7 billion in 2022. This impact incorporates contributions from direct aviation activities, capital expenditures, traveler expenditures, and additional indirect and induced impacts, as reported by an extensive Economic Impact Study published yesterday by John Wayne Airport (JWA).
JWA's economic significance in the local economy is evident, with the creation of more than 45,000 jobs and generation of $2.3 billion in labor income. Additionally, the airport contributed toward $3.5 billion in added economic value and injected over $352 million in state and local taxes. Remarkably, these achievements were accomplished while being an enterprise fund that does not rely on city, county, or state general budgets, but only on the revenue it generates.
In addition to its role as a pivotal transportation hub, JWA also energizes local businesses, fosters economic growth and provides convenient air travel for Orange County. Serving more than 11.3 million passengers in 2022, JWA catered to over 314,000 international travelers. In handling over 34.6 million pounds of air cargo, the airport notched 304,000 aircraft operations, including 202,000 by privately-owned aircrafts or general aviation.
The fact that the airport is easily accessible to 88% of Orange county residents adds to its appeal as a transportation option, offering both time and cost savings in ground access. Convenience is further provided by more than 40 non-stop flights, with 71% of domestic passengers utilizing these services, as per the Economic Impact Study.
Such benefits go beyond aviation users, affecting sectors including technology, healthcare, aerospace, education, tourism, and trade. The airport's wide-ranging influence on diverse industries in Orange County further underscores its manifold impact in the region.
John Wayne Airport continues and propels the economic and employment landscape of Orange County. The latest economic study sheds light on the airport's ongoing successes and contributions to regional businesses and residents. With its position as the sole commercial airport in the area, JWA proves quintessential in providing economic opportunities, significant capital value, and long-term investments for its surrounding communities.
